If you’ve been avoiding your daily caffeine kick because you’re pregnant, there’s some new research out there that suggests it’s probably fine to have that morning cup of joe. The study finds that moderate caffeine consumption among expectant moms will not have an effect on the child’s behavior or IQ.

Medical News Today reports about the study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology that suggests caffeinated beverages like coffee and tea don’t have to be on the ‘things to avoid’ list for pregnant women anymore.

Researchers involved in the study analyzed the marker of caffeine in the blood of more than 2,000 expectant moms between the years 1959 - 1974, a time when caffeine consumption during pregnancy was higher than today. They studied participants during two points in their pregnancy and then studied the children they had from ages 4 to 7.

The study authors found that there seemed to be no link with cognitive behavioral changes, IQ or obesity in the children whose mother consumed caffeine during pregnancy. Lead author of the study Dr. Mark A. Klebanoff from Nationwide Children's Hospital explains, "We did not find evidence of an adverse association of maternal pregnancy caffeine consumption with child cognition or behavior at 4 or 7 years of age.”

Pregnant women are advised to consume caffeine in moderation and have no more than 200mg a day. Though a standard 8oz cup of coffee is about 95mg, it’s important to remember that many of us pour a bigger cup and other products like chocolate and soda can add up.

What do you think of the new study that suggests caffeine consumption during pregnancy is safe for baby?